Quirky Eats: King’s Chef Diner

Winner of the “Best Diner in America” award barely does justice to this popular Colorado Springs iconic eatery. Opened in in 1956, the purple and yellow castle quickly gained a reputation allowing the opening of another location, the downtown spot. Each one offering it’s own unique experience with the same heaping piles of delicious, diner food.

They serve breakfast and lunch foods all day, and like any traditional diner, they’re open late (7am – “4am-ish”). No matter what time you show up, be prepared to wait. This food is so good that people come from all over to have a taste.

Their fame comes from their portion sizes, and their green chili. Two things that you’ll definitely talk about after eating here.

The breakfast burrito, an award winning meal, almost needs two plates. It comes sitting on top a bed of warm, soft hash browns and smothered in the famous Colorado Green Chili. Warning: it’s spicy. If you prefer, you can get country gravy on top.

Another popular dish, the “Thing,” delivers two pieces of Texas toast, your choice of meat, a giant mound of hash browns, and two eggs, stacked hight, in that order. All smothered in green chili (or gravy) and melted cheese.

For the hungry ones who finish their plate, the waitress brings a tin box full of stickers that proudly announce you’ve qualified for the “Clean Plate Club.”

If you’re traveling through, make sure to stop by the castle location which only holds 13 tables and gives an authentic feel to your dining experience.

Most meals cost between $7-12, and it’s cash only (ATM conveniently provided).

Bring your appetite, and cash, and don’t miss this one of a kind Colorado diner.